Fundraising
From time to time, various individuals and groups in the Temple family have ideas for fundraising or wish to support causes or events that need funds not covered in the Temple budget. All fundraising that represents the Temple (uses the Temple name), is directed to Temple members or uses Temple resources must be reported to the Executive Director. Your first step is to contact Executive Director Heather Cohen, who maintains a calendar of activities and events. This will ensure your fundraising project does not compete or interfere with another campaign.
At this time Temple does not have a fundraising committee although we have many members who have experience and knowledge in fundraising are willing to share their expertise with others. They do not conduct fundraising; the actual fundraising is done by those who have identified the need and are seeking advice. At your request, Heather will connect you with someone who can give you good advice.
Fundraising Guidelines
1) The purpose for raising funds must be related to Temple’s vision and the connection to the vision should be stated explicitly.
2) Community building should be an important goal in any fundraising activity. Building community means getting people actively involved in causes they support, allowing Temple members to pursue their special interests, and building friendships and networks of people with similar interests. Building community supports Temple’s vision.
3) Finding fundraising partners (another synagogue or other organization) expands the donor market and has the secondary benefit for Temple of enhancing Temple’s public profile and reputation.
4) Donors are more willing to contribute for a specific purpose or cause, than for general revenue. (Temple fees are expected to cover Temple operations.
5) Donors prefer to contribute to causes in which they have a personal stake or interest.
6) Smaller financial goals are easier to achieve; the activity required is usually of shorter duration and the campaign is easier on the organizers. If there are multiple events, fundraiser burnout can become a problem.
7) Each fundraising activity needs to have a champion or organizer who takes responsibility for recruiting volunteers. Donating funds is only one way to contribute; volunteering on a campaign is also an important way of donating.
8) A business plan (budget) is essential to any fundraising, and should include a plan for covering any unexpected deficit.
9) Support from the Board of Directors is a valuable asset to any fundraising campaign. Access to the Board is through the Executive Director. .
